I'm considering the purchase of an '07 that hasn't had any upgrades. I'd like to be sure I'm up to speed on the current status of upgrades etc.... Any help would be much appreciated.

Lets see if I have this correct:

a) Rudder upgrade --
-New upgrade to Twist & Stow rudder system still availalbe at no charge to 2007 models. See Matt's sticky note for part #'s.

b) Mast Collar & Mast Clip -
-Good to do, pay for the parts.

c) Upgraded Cup and New Mast base design:
- There is a change, detailed here, but as I read this, it is mostly designed to eliminate the problem caused by ocean sailing and sand in the cup. I only sail in fresh water, and don't mind cleaning the cup after each use and will always disassemble after each use. I should probably be OK with original design?

G'Day Bruce,
The major 08 improvements are the twist & stow rudder mechanism, mast cup pin and V2 Miragedrive.
You have covered the other minor improvements with the exception of the Aka brace retaining clips which hold the brace in place on the Aka when not locked in.
As far as I know the dagger board is unchanged.
The V2 Mirage drive upgrade is worthwhile and much more than just an adjustment improvement. See Roadrunners post here:
http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=8285and how to upgrade here:
http://www.hobiecat.com/community/viewtopic.php?t=8642

Thanks Stringy and thanks to Roadrunner for a super-thorough walk thru of what the V2 Mirage drive rework is all about.

As usual Hobie continues to engineer in improvements. My experience to date is with the Hobie Catamarans and you come to expect Hobie products to be elegantly designed and indestructible...which is one of the major attractions.

Bruce, this is a small item, but I believe the '08 comes with a fairlead on the roller furling cam cleat, but not the '07. It makes a big difference and you definitely should have it -- about $5 and available through Hobie or your local marine hardware.

Also, the new balanced sailing rudder was a running change during '07 -- easy to tell by the notch in front. I think that's a free upgrade also if not installed.

Oh yes, some of the pins (rudder pin, aka brace sheerbolt) were improved along the way -- good to replace with the latest available and keep the old as spares.